Anyone's DH/DP an MP or Candidate?

Most of them couldn't get jobs in the private sector (sorry not impressed by our current MP or other candidates, may just be being bitter).

They are underpaid compared to what they could get in the private sector which makes the talent pool becomes more restricted - quality of candidates will reduce if it's not an attractive job.

Good luck, OP - I can't say I envy you but you're certainly going to be living in interesting times. It will be an adventure.

Over worked and underpaid? Do you know the hours that they work??? It's part time at best.

Mind you, as no-one I have voted for has ever got in I'm pleased that they're fairly slack about attendance and voting.

Personally I think we have a shockingly poor pool of MP's to choose from and I would rather see MP pay increased to try and get a better quality of MP.

Right now it seems your regular backbenchers are overworked and underpaid (compared to similar job in the private sector). The only ones who make it to the top nowadays are the career politician's who are rich enough not to care about the money but then of course don't fully understand what your average family are going through.

I certainly wouldn't want to become an MP for what they currently get paid so I also take my hat off to your partner OP.

Good for your partner, OP. My brother was recently elected as a councillor (i.e. 2 weeks ago) and is on the list of potential candidates for Parliament - so that doesn't really count but, one day, who knows?!

I admire anyone seeking to enter politics, from any party and hate the way they are attacked in the media, supposedly on 'our' behalf. What passes for political debate in this country is very short-term and tribal, alas.

An old school friend of mine stood in a by election in my constituency a few years ago. He didn't win but the media 'frenzy' was a sight to behold. The things written about him, twisted into something unrecognisable, were gob smacking. It can be a pretty brutal process tbh. Not something id want to go thru personally.

No not anymore. Was until a few years ago in various positions.

Unfortunately all the crap is still available on google... yesterday's news, tomorrow's chip paper doesn't seem to apply anymore...

I was going to get involved myself but his experience totally put me off!!

I am sure you will be fine though :-) I think you just have to be so careful from no on in!

DH stood in the 2001 election. We didn't know each other then so cant be much help! I know he had a very very hard time in the media/press due to the party he was selected for and the area......... In fact I think one paper ended up paying him libel damages!!!